By Bob Katzen
Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a measure that authorizes $4.58 billion in bonding for various local, regional and state transportation programs. The package includes $300 million for cities and towns for local roads and bridges — $200 million which will be distributed to all municipalities based on the standard Chapter 90 Program distribution formula and another $100 million which will be distributed based solely on road mileage.
Other provisions include $500 million for the Lifecycle Asset Management Program which aids non-federally funded roads and targets the pavement and bridges across the state that are in the worst condition; $200 million for capital projects to support housing development, including stormwater management, culverts and bike and pedestrian improvements; $200 million for a new accelerated deferred maintenance and modernization program for infrastructure under the care and control of the Department of Conservation and Recreation; and $200 million for the MBTA for the procurement of electrically powered locomotives.
The legislation also reauthorizes $3.18 billion in funding for several programs included in the 2022 Transportation Bond Bill including $2.3 billion for projects on interstates and other federally aided highways; $800 million for improvements to non-federally aided roadways and bridges; $65 million for the Municipal Pavement Program for engineering, permitting, design and climate change adaptation on municipal ways; and $12 million for grants for the Shared Streets Program for improvements to municipal streets to create additional capacity for pedestrians and cyclists.
“Every community deserves safe, reliable roads, bridges and transportation infrastructure,” said Gov. Healey. “This bill delivers the resources that cities and towns need to make critical improvements, improve public safety and support housing growth. We’re proud to partner with local leaders across Massachusetts to make our communities more connected, more affordable and better positioned for the future.”
“Chapter 90 funding gives communities the flexibility to address the transportation priorities that matter most to their residents,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll. “Whether it’s repairing roads, improving sidewalks, upgrading intersections or supporting new housing development, these investments will help cities and towns deliver projects that strengthen communities and improve quality of life.”
“This legislation delivers a package of fiscally responsible, strategic support for communities across Massachusetts, including a second year of historic $300 million Chapter 90 funding and transportation investments that will unlock housing,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew Gorzkowicz. “We’re proud to continue investing in communities across Massachusetts and delivering long-term value for residents, families and businesses.”